Megan Glazer, 37, of Highland Park, recently opened Colibri Collection, which sells "all types of jewelry, including children's, handmade one-of-a-kind fashion jewelry and fine jewelry," she said. "It is a collection of pieces that I design with Northbrook's Lisa Rome (called Averett Rane), make, and purchase."

What sets you apart from similar businesses? We are a very fashion-forward store that is fresh on the North Shore with excellent customer service.We also cater to the needs of all age groups.

What made you want to open this type of store? We started by doing house shows and found that our clients needed more. It's much easier for them to just stop by and pick up a birthday, anniversary, graduation or bat mitzvah gift.

Why did you decide to open your business in Highland Park? I have two young children that attend school in Highland Park. I think it is a wonderful community and very central on the north shore. I also wanted to teach my daughters that if you put your heart into something, women can do anything.

Why did you pick this specific location at 468 Central Ave.? I loved the small intimate size of the space. From the moment I walked in, I knew it was right. When It was complete, it reminded me of a quaint Soho boutique.

What obstacles did you find when you started? Because my store is so small, it was not very visible. I needed to advertise so that people who were not part of my following already knew we were there. I still have people coming in and asking me if we just opened. We opened in April.

Did you make use of any programs or incentives offered by an organization or local government? Not yet, but I hear the Chamber of Commerce is wonderful. Even the mayor stopped by to introduce herself!

If you could offer local officials one piece of advice to make their town more attractive to entrepreneurs, what would it be? I think that Highland Park has done an excellent job of welcoming me to the community.

What mistakes did you make? Not sure about this one ...

What did you do right? I think having a big following before I opened a storefront was the best thing that I could have done.

What advice would you give to someone else looking to open a business in Highland Park? Follow your dreams and make them happen! Make friends with your neighbors. They will promote you and give you really good advice.